Lincoln Bicentennial Cent 2009: The Lincoln Bicentennial Quarter stands as a shining tribute to one of America’s most revered presidents, Abraham Lincoln. Released in 2009, this special series of cents commemorates Lincoln’s 200th birth anniversary. With its four unique designs, each representing a key chapter in his life, these coins capture the essence of his journey from a humble log cabin to the presidency during one of the nation’s most turbulent times.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the historical significance, detailed designs, and collector value of the Lincoln Bicentennial Quarter. Whether you’re a coin collector, history enthusiast, or someone curious about numismatics, this article will provide insights into these extraordinary coins.
Overview Table: Key Facts About the Lincoln Bicentennial Quarter
| Feature | Details |
| Year of Issue | 2009 |
| Design Themes | Four designs showcasing key phases of Lincoln’s life |
| Obverse | Portrait of Lincoln by Victor D. Brenner |
| Reverse Designs | Log Cabin, Rail-Splitting, Illinois State Capitol, U.S. Capitol Dome |
| Mint Marks | Philadelphia (P), Denver (D), San Francisco (S – Proof only) |
| Circulation Mintage | Highest: 376,000,000 (Formative Years); Lowest: 129,600,000 (Presidency) |
| Proof Mintage | 2,995,615 |
| Alloys | Copper-plated zinc for circulation; copper alloy for collector editions |
| Weight | Zinc: 2.50 g; Copper: 3.11 g |
| Edge | Plain (smooth) |
Why Were the Lincoln Bicentennial Quarters Created?
In 2009, the United States Mint honored the 200th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth with a special series of pennies. Replacing the Lincoln Memorial Cent design that had been in use since 1959, the new series aimed to celebrate four distinct stages of Lincoln’s life.
The designs were not only a nod to Lincoln’s legacy but also a way to remind Americans of the values he embodied: perseverance, education, and leadership. From a log cabin in Kentucky to the Capitol dome in Washington, D.C., each coin tells a story of resilience and greatness.
The Four Iconic Designs of the Lincoln Bicentennial Quarter
1. Birth and Early Childhood in Kentucky (1809–1816)
The first coin in the series takes us back to Lincoln’s humble beginnings. It features a log cabin, symbolizing the one-room structure where Lincoln was born. Designed by Richard Masters and sculpted by Jim Licaretz, this design represents Lincoln’s early life in rural Kentucky, where his journey began.
2. Formative Years in Indiana (1816–1830)
The second design captures Lincoln’s teenage years, focusing on his hard work and quest for knowledge. Charles Vickers created this image of young Lincoln splitting rails while reading a book. This phase of his life reflects his self-education and determination to rise above his circumstances.
3. Professional Life in Illinois (1830–1861)
In this design, Lincoln is shown standing in front of the Illinois State Capitol, representing his career as a lawyer and statesman. Designed by Joel Iskowitz and sculpted by Don Everhart, it celebrates Lincoln’s growth as a leader who would eventually shape the future of the United States.
4. Presidency in Washington, D.C. (1861–1865)
The final design in the series depicts the U.S. Capitol dome under construction, symbolizing Lincoln’s leadership during the Civil War. Designed by Susan Gamble, it serves as a tribute to his presidency and the challenges he faced to keep the Union intact.
Challenges in Circulation and Collecting
When these coins were released, they were expected to circulate widely, much like the 50 State Quarters. However, their release coincided with the Great Recession, which severely impacted distribution. Many coins were sent to U.S. territories, leaving collectors in the mainland struggling to find them in circulation.
To address this scarcity, the U.S. Mint offered rolls of uncirculated coins for sale at a premium. This move helped collectors secure these coins but also sparked a brief price bubble as demand soared. Today, these coins remain highly sought after, particularly the Presidency design, which had the lowest mintage.
What Makes the Lincoln Bicentennial Quarter Special?
The Lincoln Bicentennial Quarter is a blend of artistry, history, and rarity. Its four unique designs encapsulate Lincoln’s life, offering a visual narrative of his journey. Collectors value these coins not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their historical significance.
The copper alloy collector editions, struck in a composition used before 1982, add another layer of uniqueness. These coins are heavier and more durable than their zinc counterparts, making them a prized possession for serious numismatists.
Top Highlights of the Lincoln Bicentennial Quarter
- Historical Significance:
Each design is a tribute to Abraham Lincoln, showcasing his growth from a young boy in a log cabin to a leader who preserved the Union. - Scarcity and Value:
With the limited mintage of certain designs, especially the Presidency coin, these cents are a treasure for collectors.
How to Start Collecting Lincoln Bicentennial Quarters
If you’re interested in adding these coins to your collection, here are some tips:
- Search Circulation: Though rare, some coins may still appear in loose change.
- Buy Collector Sets: Purchase uncirculated or proof sets from trusted dealers or online platforms.
- Invest in Graded Coins: Certified coins from grading services like NGC or PCGS offer assurance of authenticity and condition.
FAQs About the Lincoln Bicentennial Quarter
Q1: What are the four designs of the Lincoln Bicentennial Quarter?
The designs represent Lincoln’s birth in Kentucky, formative years in Indiana, professional life in Illinois, and presidency in Washington, D.C.
Q2: Are these coins valuable?
Yes, especially the Presidency design, which had the lowest mintage. Proof and uncirculated editions are also prized by collectors.
Q3: Can these coins still be found in circulation?
They are rare in everyday change but may occasionally appear.
Q4: What is the difference between zinc and copper coins in this series?
Zinc coins were made for circulation, while copper coins were exclusively for collector sets and are heavier and more durable.
Q5: Where can I buy these coins?
You can find them at coin shops, online marketplaces, or through certified grading services.
Final Thoughts
The Lincoln Bicentennial Quarter series is more than just a collection of coins—it’s a celebration of an extraordinary leader’s life. From its detailed designs to its historical significance, this series offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, these coins are a valuable addition to any collection. Share your thoughts or collecting experiences in the comments below. Let’s keep the spirit of Lincoln alive—one coin at a time!
